The Metro SW 2.5km Classic is one of the newest open water swims on the Sydney calendar, offering swimmers a unique opportunity to experience the flat-water serenity of the iconic Sydney International Regatta Centre.
Designed to be as inclusive as possible, this event is perfect for first-timers wanting a safe and controlled introduction to open water, as well as experienced swimmers looking for an accurately measured course to chase a PB. With no tides, chop, or marine life to worry about, all that’s left is you and the water.
Spectators get a front-row seat too, thanks to footpaths and a grandstand that trace the swim route, meaning friends and family can cheer you on every stroke. It’s a day built around participation, community, and enjoying the shared buzz of an event atmosphere.
Round out your spring with something special: a swim that combines calm conditions, Olympic-level facilities, and the energy of the swimming community coming together.
The Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) in Penrith was built for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and has since become one of Australia’s premier flat-water venues. Purpose-built for rowing and paddling, the regatta lake provides a pristine, controlled setting that’s unlike any ocean or river swim.
Swimmers can expect calm, flat freshwater conditions free from currents and swell. In mid-November, the water temperature usually sits around 20-22°C, making it comfortable for both wetsuit and non-wetsuit swimmers. These conditions make the swim ideal for those looking to step up in distance with confidence.
Up The Ante: 2km Training Program
Step up in distance with this training program designed to build you up & guide you all the way to the finish. Learn more
Learn online with the OceanFit Academy or join a hands-on ocean clinic to improve your surf and open water skills.
The Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) is set on the picturesque banks of Penrith Lakes, just under an hour west of Sydney via the M4 motorway. Driving is straightforward, with clear signage and plenty of on-site parking, making it the easiest option if you’re travelling with family, friends, or gear. For those coming from the Blue Mountains, it’s only a short 30-minute drive down the Great Western Highway, so swimmers from all directions can reach the venue with ease.
Public transport is also a good option. Penrith Station, on the Western Line, is the closest major hub with frequent trains running from Sydney CBD and Parramatta. From the station, local buses, taxis, and rideshare services operate regular connections to the regatta centre in under 15 minutes. For groups, rideshare is often the simplest way to get straight to the venue gates without fuss.
Why rush off after your swim when Penrith and its surrounds have so much to offer? Start by celebrating your effort with a coffee or brunch at one of the lakeside cafés overlooking the regatta course, the perfect spot to relive your swim and cheer on the later waves. For a bigger feed, Penrith’s town centre has plenty of dining options, from casual bites and family-friendly pubs to modern restaurants for those wanting to make it more of an occasion.
If you’d like to keep moving, the Great River Walk is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Stretching along the Nepean River, it’s a scenic way to cool down the legs and soak up the natural beauty of the area. For families and thrill-seekers, Penrith is full of activities, try tackling the rapids at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium, taking flight with iFLY indoor skydiving, or testing your balance at Cables Wake Park.
And if you’re making a weekend of it, the Blue Mountains are only half an hour’s drive away. Swap the swim cap for walking shoes and explore clifftop trails, charming mountain villages, and iconic lookouts like Echo Point and the Three Sisters. Whether you’re after action, relaxation, or a mix of both, Penrith and beyond offer plenty of ways to turn your swim day into a mini adventure.
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